My bestiesss! I'm here and I'm so excited for this update. A huge chunk of it was written a while ago, and ever since I just couldn't wait to finish it (and post it)!

The main man is back, so I hope you enjoy it!

And ED made it to 71K! I can't believe it. I love all of you, my rosy tulips 🌷

Also, if you haven't followed me on Twitter, please do so. Snippets and sneak peeks on there. Same @ as on here!

♬ ✥*

Harry.

Today was a very important day.

Today was the day that things were going to change.

There was also one thing that pushed me to make this happen — no fucking way was I going to let Madison ruin my life any further.

I was done with her and the bullshit that she drilled into my mind.

Serenity showed me so many things and made me ultimately believe that I had complete control over my emotions, thoughts, and actions. Whether or not it was big or small, I could do it, and no one was going to stop me from that.

And even if they wanted to — fuck them.

Harry Styles was not some puppet or a robotic machine that only functioned when it had a mastermind behind it. I was my own leader and I was in control.

And for fuck's sake, I was a human being. I deserved to have perceptions and deeds — and feelings.

The term that Serenity called her — that bitch — suited my ex, quite well I might add. Of course, that's if anyone was to ask about her, I'd say the same thing. That's precisely what she was, and there was no way to sugarcoat that.

Not many things about me were going to change, though. Enhancing the better part of me and remove the destructive thoughts my ex drilled deep into my soul were my goals.

Every time I'm with Serenity, I feel a boost of serotonin in my body, and it's not just because she's around me, but she gives off positive vibes. It's strange, but whenever that woman walks into a room, anyone can find some form of happiness and joy on the spot — she's hypnotic.

I woke up earlier this morning, checked my emails and missed calls, then washed up. There was something I added that was never in my routine before — making myself breakfast. I made it for Essie once, and it was successful for the most part, but it was the first time for just me.

Linda was already here, so she helped me make it if I needed it. Needless to say, she was surprised as fuck, but she didn't comment on it. Of course, I could see her expressions throughout, and she was definitely grinning for obvious reasons. It was far from a five-star meal, but something proper that I could say that I had involvement in it. I also asked if she could give me tips on making dinner without burning my condo down, and she said she'd help me. I hoped that one day I could prepare a lovely evening for Serenity and me — one day.

I was proud of myself.

I even decided to go up and check on my garden. The weather was colder, but I made sure everything was still okay. When it was built, I decided to pick out the best materials for the bloom's protection — I'd never do anything to harm them.

I cared about others' happiness and care, but I never once really thought about myself. That was another thing that was going to change.

Because looking at my pride and joy made me happy.

When I went back down to get ready, an eager smile was on my face — I was already prepared and waiting for this moment to finally arrive.

Securing my cufflinks, I slipped on my suit jacket, buttoning them, and smoothed down the lapels. I glanced into the mirror to see a new reflection of myself.

I was always a confident person, and I never really cared about my looks. Then again, there was nothing really to alter about it. My appearance remained the same over the past few years, and I never bothered to see myself differently — well, only in the way my ex wanted to see me.

However, not anymore — never anymore.

Running my fingers gently through my hair, smoothing out anything out of place, I smiled at my final appearance. My back stood tall with poise and intimidation because, in the end, this was who I always was.

Just an improved version.

With a satisfied grin, I grabbed my things and made my way down to the lobby.

The moment I walked through the area towards the main doors, jaws were dropped, and eyes went wide from all of the workers. They've never seen me like this, and they were going to have to get used to it. I knew that I was going to be stared at, especially with what I was wearing. It was the first time I wasn't going to blend into a crowd, but stand out in one.

I enjoyed taking my time, though — it felt good being watched and knowing that I could make heads turn with my presence alone. My outfit was a definite add-on, but the whole 'me' was something I was very proud of.

People say that if you've got it, you should flaunt it — and that's precisely what I was doing.

Then, there was Archie, who I knew was already waiting for me. He's always been a prompt and kind man — he deserved a raise.

When I reached him, he wasn't surprised by my appearance, but instead, he had an expected grin on his face. He seemed to always know what was best for me without even saying it.

Just like the way he drove me to Serenity's apartment from the airport or when he took me to hers instead of mine when I was sick. He knew I needed someone by my side, and he saw right through the stubborn personality she had and only caught on to the kindness and care she carried.

He definitely had a good judge in character. It was a quality that I wished I had, but I knew someone else who possessed it — my Essie.

"Mr Styles, I must say, this is the best you've looked in all the years that I've known you." A smile broke out on his face.

You're not the only one who thinks that — me, too, Arch.

A vibrant rusty-ginger suit adorned my body, with a black button-down, tie and matching loafers. It was tailored perfectly as per my request. The hue complimented my skin tone, creating no contrast, but a mere harmony of flawlessness. But most importantly, there was one thing that was new to my everyday wear — the glasses that graced my face.

As Archie said, I honestly never looked better.

Of course, it's not like I'll never go back to wearing black or grey again because I loved those shades. However, now was the perfect time for a positive change. Colour was added to the mix of clothing in my closet, and I was excited to try them all.

"Thank you, Archie," I said with a smile. "Let's get going, yeah?"

"Would you like to make a stop to see Miss Hayes?"

I've noticed that whenever she's not with me, he always refers to her in a formal matter. He's always had so much respect for everyone — even if it's my girl.

"Not today. I want her to come to me." I grinned, letting his eyes in the rearview mirror.

"When does she not?" He chuckled.

"She's a bit temperamental, that one. It might piss her off, which is exactly what I want." My words were truthful, and I honestly couldn't wait for the near future.

"Well, sir, it's not the first time you've irritated that poor girl."

"She'll live. Essie's got a big heart with a stubborn soul." I chuckled.

There's also one thing else that's changed — I don't care about mentioning her nickname in front of the people I'm close with. That wasn't a lot of people, barely a handful, but it's still progress for me. I didn't want to flaunt my relationship with her because simply, it wasn't anyone else's business. They could go fuck themselves if they wished to or tried to talk about us.

However, I was well aware that people in my company were already talking about her and saying concocted things about how she worked her way into my life and just wants my money. That was a load of bullshit.

I knew that wasn't true because she hasn't taken a penny from me other than my investment. The times we've gone out to a café for lunch, she's somehow worked her way to pay for our meal. It pissed me off every single time, but she always had a bright smile on her face that I couldn't take that away. She looked so fucking beautiful.

It was hard to ignore what people would say, though, but Serenity managed to do so. If she had a problem with it or was bothered by it, I would immediately acknowledge the fact and make an announcement about it. Basically, I would kindly tell them to fuck off, and it wasn't any of their business; but Essie wouldn't be too happy about that.

Riling her up caused a peeved expression, which would end up for no kisses for me.

No fucking chance was I letting that happen.

Nonetheless, it was fun to do so. I was beginning to know specific ways to get around that and still getting those kisses.

I loved h—her kisses.

Yes. Just those.

"Oh, yes. She surely does," Archie agreed, and I laughed.

Work could wait. I needed to breathe sometimes.

Unfortunately, last night we were separated, and I was forced to sleep in my condo. I finished late last night that I didn't want to bother her by coming in past midnight. She did sleepily call me when I texted her I was in bed, but she fell asleep on the phone. I could hear her adorable little snores, and it was my personal lullaby that helped me fall into a deep slumber. I did also cuddle the pillow she slept on when she was here, because her scent still lingered in the fabric. She was near me even though she physically wasn't.

I was so fucking whipped for that woman, and anyone who dared to make fun of me for that could choke.

And just like my building, the second I stepped foot in my company, heads were turned, and shocked expressions were all around. It was just something they had to start getting used to.

I sent a single nod to the working staff at the front with a smile and the only person who returned it was one of my security guards — Mark.

People thought that I couldn't hear them, but I definitely did — and I wasn't bothered by them.

"Are you seeing what I'm seeing?"

"Is that actually him? Mr Styles? You're fucking joking."

"Damn. He looks so good. I thought he was attractive before, but now, wow," And the reply from a fellow colleague, "That Serenity girl is so lucky. I'll gladly take him to my bed."

I snickered. Not a fucking chance. I already have an angel who I love having in my bed.

And there was my personal favourite.

"Hold up. Anyone see him wear glasses before? That's different, but I kinda like it. He looks hot."

Damn right, I fucking do.

Just as the metal doors to my temporary confinement close, I let out a deep breath, taking in everything that happened in the past hour and a half. It was too much, but it was just enough for me to process properly without feeling any form of anxiety.

Pride continued to fill my veins, and it made my heart warm and content.

When I reached my floor, it was quick to see that Iris had the same expression, one that didn't last long before she smirked.

"Good morning, Mr Styles," she greeted.

"Morning," I replied, "Get Essie on the phone. Schedule an urgent meeting with her."

It wasn't exactly early — just after seven-thirty — but I knew that she was free today and planned on sleeping in.

Sorry, baby girl. Not today. It's too important.

"With regards to what?" she asked innocently.

Nice try, Iris.

"I get you're my PA, but this is a private meeting, and I don't want you to know the contents of it. Get her on the phone, and be firm. Send Archie to pick her up ASAP, and then do your job. Understood?"

"Of course." Her grin never faded at my stern tone.

She was the best, but has recently been the most frustrating personal assistant that I've ever had.

But now, it was time to get some work done before my girl got here because I knew the moment she stepped foot in my office, I was screwed.

♬ ✥*

It was an hour and a half since I requested Iris to call Serenity. I was immediately notified when she arrived at the company. Archie even sent me a text when he picked her up, saying that she was not thrilled with how urgent I'd requested her.

She was not excited, but I was fucking thrilled.

So, to piss her off further, I decided to make a business call before she arrived. And to make things dramatic, I had the back of my chair facing her.

Call me a narcissistic, theatrical ass, but I didn't give a shit.

It wasn't long before my office doors burst open, filling my room with exasperation and fragrant vanilla.

Of course, she didn't knock. She's learnt not to since we started dating. If I was busy, Iris would let her know, but technically, I wasn't.

I was expecting her, and that only put a smirk on my face.

I heard her shuffle as she struggled with removing her coat — she always did. My girl didn't have a problem with the cold, but she hated layers.

"Seriously, Harry? You just had to get Archie to get me. I'm not even properly dressed. I just threw on some leggings and a sweatshirt. He told me you needed me for some urgent meeti—" Serenity's frustrated voice echoed loudly.

However, to keep her quiet, I raised my finger to silence her as I finished my call.

"Yes. Send all the information to my PA, and I'll take a look at it tomorrow," I spoke into the phone, keeping things vague and simple. "Thank you."

Turning around in my chair, I looked up at her, and all of her muttering random words and mumbling stopped — she shut up.

It was actually quite nice sometimes.

Okay. Now, that made me an arrogant son of a bitch, but it's not like she didn't already know.

Standing up, I stretched my back and cracked my knuckles before I made my way towards her. My suit jacket was hung on the rack, and I could see her eyes flickering from it and back to me. Her mouth was agape, and she was in shock. I was busy taking in her beauty, though.

My baby looked like an absolute wreck — but a beautiful one, at that. Her hair was thrown up into a messy bun. It seemed that she got herself together during the car ride over here, but only so that she wouldn't look like crazy in front of strangers. I've seen Essie at her ultimate worst — hair into a tangled mess, makeup smudged all over her face, exhausted and drained from whatever might be, and even though she thought she was ugly, she was still beautiful.

"You-You're — That's —" she struggled with her words, then she suddenly blurted out, "Harry, what the fuck?"

Okay, that, I was not expecting — she cursed.

Shit.

She didn't like it. I wasn't prepared for her to take this approach. My stance and demeanour faltered slightly at her expression. What do I do?

"Fuck," I mumbled. "Do you, um — you don't like it? I thought that a change would be ni—"

She walked towards me, placing her finger against my lips.

"Shut up, Tiger. May I say just how amazingly sexy you look?" Essie said, lightly pulling at my tie.

And that, I was also not expecting.

She said what now?

My brows furrowed. "Sexy?"

"Oh, yes. Dashingly sexy. Those glasses, too. Just damn," she said, biting her bottom lip. "I want a cup of that British tea."

"So, you like?" I asked, just to confirm.

"I love." She grinned.

"Well, in that case, c'mere, sugarplum. I need my taste of sweet sugar today. Might need to get high on it," I said with a smirk.

"High on it?" Her brow was raised, waiting for me to correct myself — and I did.

"My mistake, petal. High on you."

Grinning, I pulled her in for a kiss. She wrapped her arms around my waist, then slowly up to the nape of my neck, whilst mine settled on her hips. I kept her close, refusing to let her go. And thankfully, for her lack of lipstick, I could make this lip-lock as heavy as I wanted.

She did taste sweet, and when I asked, she replied saying that she made Archie stop by a smoothie place to have something for breakfast. Of course, he couldn't say no to her — even though I told him to come straight to the company. She was outstanding in convincing people. I think it was her sweet nature, but I also knew that she could be very frustrated without food in her system. I couldn't blame her.

So her little outburst earlier was slightly toned down than what I predicted.

As for my darling girl who was in my arms, I wasn't quite ready to have her in my office, but we had our fun just through kissing. We may or may not have teased each other, and I just couldn't wait to go home tonight.

Lacking with my responsibilities, I relocated us to sit on my chair, situating her comfortably on my lap. She kept tugging at my tie, attempting to remove it, and after many times, I had to hold her wrists captive in my hold for her to stop.

I wasn't doing anything else but just enjoying her company and chatting about random things. She asked how my day was going, and there wasn't too much to tell. I did tell her how I enjoyed falling asleep to her snoring — which resulted in her shoving my chest.

"Have I told you how beautiful you look today?" I said, softly grazing my finger along her cheek.

She snorted a laugh, mumbling 'beautiful, yeah right,' then shook her head, responding, "But no. You didn't."

"Really?" I furrowed my brows.

"Yeah."

So instead of saying something that she anticipated, I bit the corner of my lips. "Alright then."

"So?"

"So, what?"

"I'm waiting."

"For what?" I grinned, and she raised a brow, silently stating the obvious. "Oh, for your compliment?"

"No, I'm waiting for the next astronaut to step foot on the moon," she sarcastically spoke with a dry laugh.

"Sorry. You might not get one today," I teased, a grin still tugged on my lips.

"Then forget me giving you anymore kisses today." She narrowed her eyes and started to get up from my lap, but I was quick to grab her arms, keeping her in place.

Fuck. She was good.

"Not so fast, darling."

"Don't darling me."

"You look so fucking beautiful today..." I whispered. "...as you do every day."

Leaning forward, I placed a soft kiss on her bottom lip, then her top, before settling them fully. I repeated the movements until she got restless, impatient and wanting more from me, but I refused to give in.

Yes. It turned out that I was a fucking tease — and I had a lot of fun with it.

"You're mean," she said with a pout.

"Never said I wasn't, love." I smiled.

"You never said you were either."

"Touché," I agreed, and she grinned. "You want breakfast or anything to eat?"

"Shouldn't be a question, H. You know, you practically brought me here captive, food-less and all. And we both know that smoothie doesn't count. So, it's just